Here at Exclusive, we use our cannabis blog to dive deep into the cannabis ecosystem, uncovering cannabinoids such as CBN and strains such as Sour Diesel so you can broaden your understanding of this fascinating plant. Today we’re going to deepen that investigation with a look at the myrcene terpene, without much doubt the most important of the cannabis terpenes.
As you may already know, terpenes are the fragrant “essential oils” that give different strains—as well as countless other plants and natural products—their distinctive aromas and flavors. But while it was once believed that those oils contributed little more than pretty scents, today we know that they’re biologically active in their own right. If you’re interested in the use of terpenes for anxiety and other potential myrcene effects, today’s post is for you!
The Myrcene Terpene: The “Mother” of All Cannabis Terpenes
Myrcene is the most abundant terpene found in cannabis, and most researchers agree it’s the most important one of them all, synergizing the actions of other terpenes and even interacting with cannabinoids. Known for an earthy (bordering on funky) aroma some compare with ripe fruit or aged vinegar, myrcene is often implicated as the chief contributor to “the pot smell.” Elsewhere in nature, myrcene is found in thyme, mangoes, lemongrass, and in the hops that flavor most beers.
Believe it or not, long before anyone thought to investigate cannabis terpenes, myrcene was already in use as a natural inflammation fighter. Today, studies suggest that myrcene exhibits pain-fighting qualities as well. But what makes it so unusual is its role in the so-called “entourage effect,” whereby the natural compounds in cannabis interact to exert more powerful medical effects than they do on their own. (We’ll return to that topic in a moment.)
Then there’s the topic of sleep. While there’s disagreement as to whether myrcene actually induces sleep, at least one clinical study points to the myrcene terpene’s potential in fostering deeper, more restorative rest (as well as potentially being one of the effective terpenes for anxiety). That may be one reason myrcene is suspected of inspiring the infamous “couch lock” syndrome associated with certain indica-leaning strains of cannabis.
Myrcene Effects: Part of “The Entourage”?
From our standpoint, the “entourage effect” is one of the most intriguing theories in the cannabis world. First proposed by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam—the renowned Israeli researcher who identified THC as the source of cannabis’ euphoric “high”—the theory suggests a nearly infinite number of potential synergies and interactions between the many compounds found in the cannabis plant.
Could it be true? Some research suggests it is, although the exact mechanisms remain unknown. And it lends weight to our developing understanding that—of all the cannabis terpenes—myrcene may be the most vital terpene in the world of the cannabis plant.
The Myrcene Terpene: In Conclusion
Interested in cannabis terpenes? Deepen your knowledge by reading our recent post on caryophyllene, another fragrant powerhouse found in the marijuana plant. And if you have any other questions about myrcene effects—or anything else in the world of cannabis—just ask! We’re always here to help.
